Kushal Malla's all-round brilliance propels Chitwan to 32-run victory over Janakpur

Kushal Malla produced an outstanding all-round performance to register 31-run victory over the table-topper Janakpur Bolts in the 25th match of the Nepal Premier League at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.

After electing to bat first, Chitwan Rhinos posted a formidable total of 180 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs. Thanks to Captain Kushal Malla, who led the charge with a blistering 72 off 41 balls, including three boundaries and seven sixes. He received valuable support from Ravi Bopara who contributed 45 runs.

The Janakpur bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, Lalit Rajbanshi was pick of the bowlers with 2 for 11 in his four overs.

Chasing a target of 181, Janakpur's innings faltered early, losing key wickets at regular intervals. Anil Sah 8(6), Lahiru Milantha 1(4) and Haersh Thaker 6(6) went cheaply. James Neesham provided some resistance with a quickfire 47 off 16 balls, but his efforts were in vain as the team was bowled out for 148 in 18 overs.

Chitwan's bowling attack was spearheaded by Kushal Malla, who showcased his all-round prowess by taking 2 wickets for 26 runs, and Sohail Tanvir, who also claimed 2 wickets for 23 runs.